Best terrarium plants for a self-sustaining mini garden

Indoor gardening is becoming popular due to its many benefits. Growers can have the required plants flourish year-round within these controlled systems, improving the appeal and environment of indoor spaces. Common methods include using greenhouses and grow tents.

Another example is growing plants inside a terrarium. These transparent containers are ideal for slow-growing, easy-to-maintain plants. Growcycle offers helpful guides for growing and maintaining plants inside indoor gardens. 

What is a Terrarium?

Terrariums are transparent glass or plastic containers that grow different plants by maintaining the required growing conditions. They are an innovative idea for creating an indoor garden in a limited space with fewer care and maintenance measures. Terrariums are small, self-sustained ecosystems where water and oxygen replenish and maintain the system’s humidity.

A terrarium may be small and comprise 1 to 3 plants or larger, with 4 to 6 plants. These green spaces inside homes greatly improve the area's aesthetic appeal and grow plants while minimizing resource use. 

Types of Terrarium

Terrariums may be open or closed systems. Both of these types are suitable to grow different types of plants.

1. Open Terrarium

An open terrarium is a glass container without a covering that shields the inner ecosystem from outside environments. Plants that require minimal humidity and good air spaces, such as cacti, are suitable for growing in open terrariums. They require frequent watering, as the excess water continuously leaves the system. 

2. Closed Terrarium

In closed terrariums, the glass containers are sealed with a suitable lid or cork. The glass retains humidity in its closed environment, so growers do not have to water such systems frequently. 

Plants with high humidity requirements, such as ferns, mosses, creeping figs, and golden pothos, are ideal for growing in a closed-system terrarium. However, growers should not seal the closed system completely; instead, they should keep it close enough to allow excess humidity and temperature to leave the container. 

Terrarium Plants vs. Conventionally Grown Plants

Terrariums are small, enclosed ecosystems ideal for decorative purposes, while conventionally grown plants thrive in open-air conditions and serve a variety of functional and aesthetic roles. Here are some key differences:

Best Terrarium Plants for a Self-Sustaining Mini Garden

Terrarium plants should be slow-growing and require fewer maintenance measures. Here are some suitable options to plant inside a terrarium:

1. Prayer Plant 

Prayer plant has lush green foliage with burgundy or red shading at the leaf bottom. Its variegated leaves make it suitable for growing as a decorative houseplant. The name ‘prayer plant’ is derived from its habit of closing its leaves at night like the hands of a prayer. 

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Plantae

Family: Marantaceae

Order: Zingiberales

Genus: Maranta

Botanical Name: Maranta leuconeura

Common Name: Prayer plant

Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial

Characteristics

• The prayer plant is a slow-growing houseplant that can grow to a maximum height of 1 foot and 1.5 feet wide. It matures fully in 2 to 3 years. 
• They grow well in spring and summer under proper conditions and produce tiny, pink, or white flowers, usually in clusters. However, the plants are popular for their vibrant vegetation. 
• It is commonly found in the tropical rainforests of Brazil and requires highly humid, warmer environments with temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit to grow well. 
• The leaves spread during the day to store the excess moisture from the surroundings, while at night, they close to prevent water loss due to transpiration. 
• People use them as decorative indoor plants due to their fresh and vibrant leaves. They are easy to maintain, non-toxic, and well-known for naturally removing pollutants and purifying air.

2. Polka Dot Plant

Polka dot plants are suitable for growing indoors, in terrariums, or in outdoor decorative green spaces due to their lush and vibrant appearance. The plant requires well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 6.5. With optimal growing conditions and little maintenance, polka dot plants can last for several years.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Plantae

Family: Acanthaceae

Order: Lamiales

Genus: Hypoestes

Common Name: Polka dot plant

Botanical Name: Hypoestes phyllostachya

Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial

Characteristics

• The oval-shaped leaves contain pinkish or burgundy red polka dots that look vibrant on the lush green shade background. These oval or lance-shaped leaves feature soft and delicate textures. 
• Polka dot plants thrive in tropical rainforests with indirect sunlight exposure. They require highly humid and warmer environments and show little to no tolerance to cold. 
• They show moderate to fast growth and mature fully within 2 to 3 months. The plants grow to 3 feet in height and spread to 2 feet. 
• Plants grow best during summer and spring, producing small, fragile, lilac-colored edible flowers. 
• Polka dot plants are natural purifiers, offer safe exposure, and multiply by propagating in water and the soil.

3. Cryptanthus

Cryptanthus are slow-growing plants that are perfect for adding vibrancy and improving the aesthetic appeal of indoor environments. They grow small roots and require fewer maintenance measures, making them a preferable choice for terrariums.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Plantae

Family: Bromeliaceae

Order: Poales

Genus: Cryptanthus; Otto & A.Dietr

Common Name: Earthstar

Botanical Name: Cryptanthus

Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial

Characteristics

• Cryptanthus shows a consistent but moderate growth rate. It takes 1 to 2 years to mature fully and grows up to 3 inches to 3 feet. 
• High humidity, bright sunlight, and warm climate are the optimal growing conditions for Cryptanthus plants.
• It has elongated, usually variegated leaves in a rosette shape, which can grow up to 80 mm. The green leaves have dark stripes or spots on the lower side and a gray shade on the upper side. 
• Throughout its life, Cryptanthus flowers only bloom once. Foliage appears directly from the aerial roots of the plant. 
• They prefer highly humid environments with temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and can not survive in colder regions. 
• After it dies, the left behind offsets can propagate new Cryptanthus plants.

4. Chinese Banyan

Chinese Banyans are slow-growing trees that can conveniently be grown with many other plants. Their compact size and low maintenance make them ideal for terrariums.

Scientific Classification: 

Kingdom: Plantae

Family: Moraceae

Order: Rosales

Genus: Ficus

Common Name: Chinese banyan

Botanical Name: Ficus microcarpa

Plant Type: Tree

Characteristics

• It is an evergreen tree or shrub that grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. Bright, indirect light, high humidity, and warm temperatures are ideal for its well-being.  
• Chinese banyan has lush green leaves that appear oval with a glossy texture. As the season changes, the tree sheds its leaves and regrows under the required growing conditions.
• It can grow to several heights, but its maximum height in a terrarium is 12 inches. It takes 1 to 2 years to mature fully, while the leaves grow to 2 to 2.25 inches. 
• The plant is resilient to uncertain conditions and can withstand temperature, light, and humidity fluctuations in a terrarium. 
• It has a compact size, develops aerial roots, grows as epiphytes, and produces monoecious flowers.  
• Ficus microcarpa is used medicinally in many countries, is an excellent animal food source, and is well-known for absorbing pollution.

5. Creeping Fig

Creeping fig is an evergreen climbing vine that shows active growth during warmer months. Its lush, aesthetic, small-sized leaves are a pleasant addition to any compact area, indoor green space, or even terrarium. It can create a foliage cascade when grown at heights in a terrarium.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Plantae

Family: Moraceae

Order: Rosales

Genus: Ficus

Common Name: Creeping fig

Botanical Name: Ficus pumila

Plant Type: Creeping vine

Classification

• Initially, creeping figs grow slowly, but after about a year, they grow fast and attain a maximum height of 40 feet, making them suitable for trellis and hanging plants. 
• The leaves are minute and heart-shaped with a soft texture and grow up to 1 inch. Once mature, it gets a deep green leathery appeal with 2 to 4 inches in size. 
• The plant prefers highly humid and warmer conditions. A consistently humid environment makes the creeping figs prone to several pests, including mealybugs. 
• It resists drought and light and grows efficiently in rocks, forests, or vertical or horizontal surfaces. 
• The plant is native to East Asia. It is highly flexible in its surrounding environments and spreads efficiently along the surfaces it attaches to. 
• The resilient creeping figs can last 20 to 30 years with the right growing conditions. 
• Ficus pumila produces pear-shaped fruits with a green hue that turns purple once mature. Winds and birds disperse its seeds, which promote the reproduction of creeping figs.

6. Golden Pothos

Epipremnum aureum, commonly known as golden pothos, are evergreen plants that require minimal care and beautify green spaces with their lush green appearance. Due to their small size and decorative features, they are well-known as house plants and terrariums. Beginners with minimal planting experience can grow and maintain golden pothos well.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Plantae

Family: Araceae

Order: Alismatales

Genus: Epipremnum

Common Name: Golden Pothos

Botanical Name: Epipremnum aureum

Plant Type: Evergreen houseplant

Characteristics

• The leaves of golden pothos are smaller, heart-shaped, waxy, and lush green in color with a yellow and white variegation hue. 
• The plant is native to temperate, tropical, and subtropical forests. It requires moderate to high humidity and warm temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Golden pothos are highly resilient plants that survive even with minimal care, less than required light, and varying humidity levels.
• Different parts of the plant contain crystals of a harmful mineral called calcium oxalates, which is highly toxic to humans and animals. 
• They survive for about 5 to 10 years with minimal care and maintenance, even in neglected environments. With proper care, they may last even longer. 
• Their aerial roots growing from air nodes help them in climbing and suck nutrients from the surroundings, promoting efficient growth and well-being of golden pothos. 
• Velamens around the pothos' strong aerial roots prevent water loss from the plant, preparing it for drought-resistant conditions.

7. Nerve Plant

Nerve plants grow well in warm environments, and their vibrant vegetation makes them a good indoor option. These easy-to-propagate plants have premium use in decorative green spaces due to their colorful vegetation.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Plantae

Family: Acanthaceae

Order: Lamiales

Genus: Fittonia

Common Name: Nerve plant

Botanical Name: Fittonia albivenis

Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial

Characteristics

• It is an evergreen plant that prefers warm temperatures of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit with a moderately humid environment. 
• The dark green oval-shaped leaves grow up to 5 cm and may contain veins of silver or white color, making them ideal for decorative purposes. 
• Occasionally, the plant produces a cream-colored flower, but it is more popular for its vibrant leaves. 
• Nerve plant grows as a native species in tropical rainforests of South America in low to medium light. 
• They grow consistently but slower and are intolerant to harsh winters, making them suitable for growing indoors.

How to Create a Terrarium?

Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a Terrarium:

1. Get the Tools and Materials

Gardeners need a few basic tools and materials for a terrarium to thrive. Clean scissors are used to trim plants, large spoons are used to add soil, and spray bottles are used to mist the plants.

Essential materials include a clear container, appropriate plants, and decorative items. Refined gravel, activated charcoal, sheet moss, and high-quality potting soil are also needed for proper drainage and layering.

2. Select the Right Container

A clean, clear container is crucial for healthy plant growth. It should be free of dirt, cracks, or harmful residues. Choose a size that allows enough space for the plants.

Containers can be opened or closed depending on the plants. Open terrariums work well for drought-tolerant plants like succulents and cacti, while closed ones suit humidity-loving plants.

3. Get the Desired Plants

Select plants that grow slowly and require little maintenance. Terrarium plants should thrive in high humidity and adapt to different light levels. Common choices include ferns, mosses, and small tropical plants.

4. Introduce Layers for Drainage

Start with a layer of gravel or small stones at the bottom for drainage since terrarium containers don’t have drainage holes. Add a ½-inch layer of activated charcoal above the gravel to remove odors and keep the environment fresh.

5. Add Soil and Moss Layer

Place a layer of sheet moss over the charcoal to prevent soil from mixing with the lower layers. Add a high-quality potting mix on top, making the soil layer thick enough to support plant roots. The soil should be clean and airy for proper growth. 

6. Insert the Plants

Trim any damaged parts or long roots before planting to fit the limited space of the terrarium. Use a spoon to make small holes in the soil, then gently place the plants. Leave enough space between them to avoid overcrowding.

7. Water the Container Gently

Once the plants are in place, mist them gently with a spray bottle. Avoid overwatering to prevent diseases caused by standing water. Maintain just enough moisture to keep the environment humid.

8. Monitor the Terrarium

Regular care ensures the terrarium stays healthy. Wipe any dust or dirt from the container walls, remove fallen leaves or dead plants, and check for signs of overcrowding or disease. This helps create the best conditions for plant growth.

Tips to Resolve Common Issues of a Terrarium

Due to the high humidity inside a terrarium container, several problems may arise. Here are some common issues that can happen to terrarium plants and possible ways to overcome them:

• Terrariums may develop mold growth or fungal attacks as the inside environment is highly humid and warm. Open the lid frequently to let the fresh air circulate.
• High temperatures in terrariums are also common, which may invite fungi and many diseases. Avoid keeping the container in direct sunlight. 
• Excess water may cause the foliage of the terrarium plant to turn yellow. Remove the lid to allow the excess water to evaporate. 
• Sometimes, the terrariums may catch bugs due to the favorable environments. Remove them from the system manually. 
•  Plants may wilt or damage inside a terrarium due to the lack of moisture. Water the plants sufficiently or prune the severely affected parts. 
• Plants may overgrow inside the container, crowding the space. To maintain a healthy terrarium ecosystem, trim the overgrown plant parts regularly. 
• Regularly clean the container and remove any fallen leaves. Wipe out dirt from the container's sides.

FAQs

Can you use tap water for terrariums?

Hydrating a terrarium with tap water is fine. Growers may leave it for at least a day to settle excess chlorine. Rainwater is also good for watering a terrarium garden. 

What is the ideal location to keep a terrarium?

Keep terrariums in an area with bright, indirect sunlight. Create a suitable space specifically for the terrarium container, as disturbing it may harm the plants growing inside. 

What is the suitable ratio for the terrarium's drainage material?

Add one part refined drainage material and three parts premium potting soil so that one-third of the terrarium's space should contain drainage material. 

The Bottom Line

Terrarium plants can improve the aesthetic appeal of any indoor area. They absorb different pollutants from indoor air, acting as air purifiers and improving the surrounding air quality. Choosing the right plants with low maintenance requirements is key to a healthier and lasting terrarium. Growcycle offers different ways to grow lush green spaces indoors. Its valuable advice can also benefit new gardeners.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, where he covers the latest news, trends, and innovations in sustainable agriculture. He has a deep passion for storytelling that emphasizes ecological balance and responsible farming practices.

Before joining Growcycle, Victor worked for several agricultural and environmental publications, reporting on significant environmental issues and interviewing key figures in the sustainability sector. His work has been featured in various industry journals and online platforms.